South Africa’s automotive industry is off to a strong start in 2025, with new car sales revealing some interesting trends. Toyota remains the dominant force, while Suzuki continues to climb the ranks. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers are making serious inroads into the market. Let’s take a closer look at the top 15 best-selling car brands in South Africa for January 2025 and what’s driving their success.

1. Toyota – 12,152 units
Toyota remains South Africa’s best-selling car brand, selling more than 12,000 units in January alone. The Hilux, Corolla Cross, and Fortuner continue to dominate their segments, offering a mix of reliability, strong resale value, and extensive dealer support. Toyota’s strong fleet and government sales also contribute to its commanding lead.


4. Hyundai – 2,760 units
Hyundai continues to attract buyers with well-priced, stylish, and feature-packed models like the i20, Creta, and Venue. With a strong after-sales service and competitive warranty, Hyundai is a reliable choice for those looking for an alternative to Japanese and European brands.

7. GWM – 1,756 units
Great Wall Motors (GWM) is another Chinese brand making waves, with strong sales in both passenger cars and bakkies. The P-Series bakkie is gaining popularity among South African consumers looking for an affordable, well-equipped alternative to the Hilux and Ranger. The Haval Jolion and H6 SUVs also continue to perform well.8. Isuzu – 1,733 unitsIsuzu remains a strong player in the commercial and bakkie market, with its rugged D-Max leading the charge. Known for its durability and reliability, Isuzu continues to be a top choice for businesses and individuals needing a tough workhorse.


11. Renault – 1,409 units
Renault’s budget-friendly lineup, including the Kwid, Triber, and Kiger, remains popular among entry-level buyers. While Renault may not be the biggest player in the market, its compact cars offer excellent value for money.

14. Omoda & Jaecoo – 743 units
The newly introduced Omoda C5 and Jaecoo J7 have started making an impact in South Africa. These premium Chinese sub-brands focus on futuristic styling and high-tech features, appealing to young, style-conscious buyers. Expect their sales to grow in the coming months.
15. Jetour – 451 units
Jetour, another rising Chinese brand, is starting to establish itself with models like the X70 and Dasheng. As more consumers explore affordable alternatives to traditional brands, Jetour is expected to gain more traction in the local market.Key Takeaways from January 2025 Car SalesToyota remains the undisputed market leader, selling nearly double the number of cars as its closest competitor, Suzuki.Suzuki’s continued growth is a major talking point, proving that affordable, fuel-efficient cars are in high demand.
Chinese brands are making serious moves—Chery, GWM, Omoda, and Jetour are all gaining market share, offering feature-packed vehicles at competitive prices.
Bakkies remain a staple in South Africa, with brands like Toyota, Ford, Isuzu, and GWM fighting for dominance in this lucrative segment.
Luxury brands like BMW are holding strong, while brands like Renault and Nissan are maintaining steady but modest sales.
Final ThoughtsThe South African car market is more competitive than ever, with a mix of established players and rising brands battling for consumer attention. With Toyota leading the charge, Suzuki surging, and Chinese automakers expanding their presence, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for car buyers.What are your thoughts on the latest car sales rankings? Which brand are you rooting for? Let us know in the comments!